Old recipes bring new flavors at Yui

By Marsha Sandman | CNA Media Team

After spending her childhood cooking in a Thailand street cart, Chalunthron “Yui” Schaeffer now has a restaurant of her own. Photo by Marsha Sandman

From the streets of Bangkok to the streets of Concordia, Chalunthron “Yui” Schaeffer brings her favorite flavors to you at her new restaurant “Yui” at 5519 N.E. 30th Ave.

Yui learned her culinary skills from her mother and grandmother in Thailand. She started cooking from a street cart in Bangkok, the town where she also earned a bachelor’s degree in management and hospitality.

She honed her skills while working in 4-star hotels. When the opportunity arose, she and her family moved to the United States. Yui then lived in New York City, where she cooked in some of New York’s finest restaurants.

She continued her culinary handiwork when she joined her mother in Portland in 2017. Last year, when Yui was cooking at Yakuza, restaurateur Dayna McErlean decided to close her other restaurant, DOC.

After Yui submitted a proposal and a menu, Dayna agreed to lease the spot to Yui, who could finally open her own restaurant.

With all her savings and the help of friends, Yui opened the door for business in only five days. She prepares her favorite foods with a little bit of fusion and a lot of Thai authenticity.

“Ever since I moved to Portland, I wanted to share my mother’s food with everyone and extend the warmth and love I felt eating her food,” Yui said. “It brings me much joy to see people enjoying my mother’s cooking as well.”

Yui appreciates the kindness and generosity of her customers, who typically become her friends.

“Dining with us will be an experience. Our food is authentic, true Thai flavors with the same ingredients used back home in Thailand if possible,” she explained.

The restaurant is open Wednesdays through Sundays, noon-9 p.m., with takeout only for now. Find the menu at YuiPDX.com.

To sample dishes like Pad Kee Moa with squid ink pasta, Kra Pao with Wagu beef or Nam Tok Moo, call 503.946.9465 or email YuiPDX289@gmail.com.

After living east, south, north and west, Marsha Sandman is home at last. And she wants to hear your story. Contact her at MarshaJSandman@gmail.com.